EAST LANSING - Josh Brent's reputation preceded him when he showed up for Michigan State's camp on Wednesday. And then he bolstered his already-fine reputation with a standout performance before Spartan coaches.

The four-star prospect from Bloomington (Ill.) Central Catholic is ranked the No. 21 defensive tackle in the country, which could translate to a Top 10 ranking at either nose guard or three-technique defensive tackle in the fall.

He proved to be every bit as good as that ranking at the Michigan State - and maybe better.

At 6-3, 280, he is powerfully-built, from his arms, to his shoulders, throughout his core. His build and power are reminiscent of Robert Newkirk, who starred at Michigan State in the late 1990s.